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You don't need a high level of artistic talent to paint complex designs on your wall or to replicate a design across the wall when you use a stencil. When you can't find exactly what you want for a stencil or that the stencil is too expensive for your budget. In this instance, you can make your own, especially if it is a straightforward design, like a letter. A monogram stencil can help you make your home more personal, and if you make your own, you can choose a font that suits you perfectly.

1

Create a printed letter using a wordprocessing program by typing the desired letter and changing the font to one you find attractive. Monograms are typically capital letters. Change the size of the letter so it is large enough to suit your design. Wordprocessing programs often have "rulers" along the sides, which show you how big the letter will be when printed. If the program won't let you make the letter as big as you want, take a screenshot of the letter, then resize it in a photo editing program or a digital painting program. Print out your letter on plain computer printing paper. If you have good handwriting, you can freehand a letter on the paper, as well.

2

Place your letter on a stable surface. Tape it in down. Place an uncut stencil sheet over the letter. Tape the stencil sheet in place, as well.

3

Trace around the letter on the paper underneath the plastic onto the plastic using a permanent marker. A marker with a fine point is the most accurate kind. When you trace, keep in mind that you'll need small "tabs" to keep open areas in letters in place. For instance, to keep the loops in a "B" in place, you'll need at least one little tab that connects the loops to the rest of the letter to keep them in place when you use the stencil. Two or more is better.

4

Remove the tape from the stencil sheet and letter and move the letter out of the way. Put the stencil sheet on a surface that can be damaged, such as a pile of newspapers or a piece of cardboard.

5

Cut out the stencil with a small craft knife. A ruler helps you make straight lines tidier. Work slowly and carefully.

Things You Will Need

Computer

Printing paper

Tape

Uncut stencil

Fine-point permanent marker

Craft knife

Ruler

Tip

Uncut stencil sheets are designed specifically for the purpose of making stencils, but you can use any kind of clear or translucent plastic that is strong enough to withstand the process of cutting.